darsena hub

The revitalization of Ravenna's Darsena embodies an ambitious vision for urban renewal, transforming a scarcely utilized canal and its surrounding area into a vibrant, interconnected hub. Once the city's active port, the Darsena now serves as a unique but underappreciated stretch of water, separated from the historic center by the railway station. The proposed envisions a multidimensional solution designed to bridge the divide between the city center and the Darsena. Central to this project is an elevated pedestrian and bicycle walkway that seamlessly connects the historic fabric, the railway station, and a reimagined waterfront.
Inspired by Ravenna's ancient Roman aqueducts, the walkway combines historical reference with modernity through its steel construction, portraying contemporary maritime design. Its arched form introduces a striking sculptural element to the cityscape, while its elevation ensures safe and tranquil mobility above traffic. The elevated path extends beyond Viale Farini, encircles the station roundabout, and continues integrating a spiral ramp for streetfront access and direct links to train platforms. Beneath the walkway, flexible spaces address urban needs, providing parking solutions, bus shelters for nearby schools, and opportunities for commercial spaces along the Darsena.

Supporting infrastructure further amplifies the project's impact. The new building is a 3-storey conventional structure, with an envelope that takes inspiration from the theme of sailing, in place of the existing parking lots at Piazzale A. Moro. Tensile membranes hide the conventional frame of the structure, changing its shape and perception, both from the adjacent street, and from the Darsena dock. The quadrangular sheets made of ptfe fabric are produced serially and fixed around the structure giving a new and unprecedented 'soft' volumetry.

Historic structures are also repurposed to support the community. Two railway buildings are transformed into public spaces, with one housing a cafeteria and fab-lab for creative activities and the other offering a study room and meeting areas. A landscaped courtyard between the buildings enhances the environment, while the historic water tower is converted into a micro-library accessible by elevator, adding cultural value to the site.

This comprehensive redevelopment integrates modern infrastructure, cultural heritage, and community needs into a cohesive masterplan. By reconnecting the canal with the historic center and transforming it into a dynamic, accessible public space, the project positions Ravenna's Darsena as a focal point of urban life, tourism, and sustainable mobility. ▼read more